How Osaka’s withdrawal has blown the draw open for this Aussie wildcard |
Naomi Osaka already had the two biggest moments of the Australian Open: her show-stopping outfit in the opening round and her fiery exchange with Sorana Cirstea.
Then, she went and withdrew from the tournament.
The devastating turn of events for Osaka – who pulled out due to an abdominal injury – has blown the tournament wide open for her opponent, Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis, who now automatically progresses to the fourth round.
Australian Maddison Inglis after her second-round win against Laura Siegemund.Credit: Getty Images
It’s the furthest Inglis has ever gone at a grand slam. But standing in the way of her and a quarter-final spot is Iga Swiatek.
The benefit for Swiatek – besides being a six-time major champion and the world No.2 – is that her opponent has spent 11 hours more than her on court.
Between singles qualifying, main draw, women’s doubles and mixed doubles, Inglis has spent 16 hours and 12 minutes on the court at this Australian Open.
Swiatek has been on court for just five hours and three minutes.
Let that sink in.
Iga Swiatek after her third round win on Saturday night.Credit: Getty Images
Even though Swiatek battled through a roller-coaster match in the........